Adderall is one of many types of stimulant medication commonly used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), helping individuals improve focus, concentration, and impulse control.
Stimulant medication such as Adderall can help people that struggle with staying organized, but many people never have the opportunity to benefit from the medication because they do not know where to start.
With any medication, it is important to meet with a licensed health care provider for a proper evaluation to determine if the medication is appropriate and safe for you. Some medical providers may require a formal evaluation from a licensed psychologist or psychiatric specialist to determine if a diagnosis of ADHD is warranted. If diagnosed, then you can begin conversations with a psychiatric specialist on potential opportunities for treatment, including medication.
Getting prescribed Adderall is not just about obtaining a medication-it’s about finding the right long-term treatment plan that can help you be at your best. Medication is not a “fix” for ADHD, it is a treatment option aimed at decreasing symptoms that are disruptive and increasing functions such as focus, providing you an opportunity to achieve your treatment goals.
Step 1: Schedule an ADHD Evaluation
The first step in getting an Adderall prescription is to meet with a licensed psychologist or licensed psychiatric specialist for an initial evaluation, where you will get evaluated on your medical history and review of your symptoms. Common symptoms of ADHD include:
- Difficulty finishing tasks
- Feeling restless
- Struggling with organization or time management
- Frequently listing items or losing track of priorities
- Impulsive decision making
These are just some of the common ADHD symptoms, which is why it is important to get a thorough evaluation done to determine the main causes of your challenges.
Step 2: Diagnostic Testing and Assessment
To ensure an accurate diagnosis is done, you will meet with a licensed mental health provider for a clinical review where you will begin the testing and assessment.
This process can take anywhere from 1 – 4 hours depending upon the complexity and severity of symptoms. Ensuring a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis is the foundation of developing a safe and effective treatment plan.
Step 3: Building a Personalized Treatment Plan
If you are confirmed with an ADHD diagnosis, the next step is to create a personalized treatment plan that is suited to your specific symptoms, goals, and lifestyle. This plan will often include things like:
Medication management: If Adderall is prescribed, there will be a specific medication management program that is customized as part of your treatment plan.
Therapy and support: Outside of an Adderall prescription, there are also supplemental therapy suggestions like counseling, ADHD coaching that can help create coping strategies to enhance your productivity and focus
Lifestyle recommendations: Exercise and sleep are also structured routines that can enhance your overall focus and mental clarity.
At Mental Health Centers for America, we will take time to explain each option to make sure you are comfortable with your personalized treatment plan.
Step 4: Ongoing Assessment and Follow-Up
If it is determined that you are a good fit for an Adderall prescription, your provider will start a prescription and monitor your response to see how the medication is impacting your day-to-day life and ensure there are no significant side effects.
Adderall or any other type of stimulant is a controlled substance, and it’s important to make sure the medication is used safely and effectively. Because of this, from time to time, your psychiatrist may adjust your dosage depending on how you feel.
What to Expect from ADHD Treatment
Because ADHD doesn’t show up the same way for everyone, each treatment typically combines a variety of treatment methods. An Adderall prescription is one step in your journey to being more productive, and when combined with lifestyle strategies many people notice significant improvements in:
- Focus and productivity
- Motivation and consistency,
- Organization and time management
- Emotional Control
- Overall confidence and performance at work or school
Your provider’s role is to guide you through this process step by step and adjust your treatment plan based on your symptoms and levels of improvement.
Take the First Step Toward Better Focus
If you believe ADHD could be affecting your productivity at work, school, or day-to-day life, it is best to take action and seek help. A thorough evaluation is the first step toward becoming the person you want to be and setting yourself up for success long-term.
At Mental Health Centers of America in Phoenix and Mesa, our team specializes in ADHD diagnosis and treatment. We take pride in developing a customized treatment and medication management program that is specific to your symptoms and needs.
Contact us today at 602-224-2277 to schedule your ADHD evaluation and take the first step to better focus and a more balanced life.
